Niger’s junta urged to hold elections, restore civilian rule

Thursday's coup in Niger continues to arouse concern in West African countries. Regional organizations are urging the new military junta to hold elections as soon as possible to restore civilian rule.

The Community of Sahel-Saharan States, sent its General Secretary to Niger. The General Secretary met with the military junta on Saturday.

Mohamed Al-Madani, Secretary-General of Saharan States Community, said, of"We were surprised by the events the day before yesterday. I've been sent here to speak to the Supreme Council for the Restoration of Democracy to see what its plans are, and to assure ourselves of the safety of President Tandja and his family. "

Meanwhile, a delegation from the Economic Community of West African States, arrived overnight to press for a peaceful transition.

Madicke Niang, Senegalese Foreign Minister, ECOWAS Delegation Member, said, "We are waiting for the results that everyone is waiting for, the results for the transition, to push for a new constitution and for the organization of new elections in order to install stability for Niger definitively."

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